Long Live the King.

Chadwick Boseman passed away at 43 on Friday night after a four-year battle with colon cancer. The actor passed away in his Los Angeles home alongside his wife, family, and publicist. Boseman became an international superstar when he brought King T’Challa to life in Marvel’s Black Panther (2018) and continued to deliver strong performances as Wakanda’s ruler in Avengers: Infinity War (2019) and Avengers: Endgame (2020). A statement announcing his death was posted on Boseman’s Twitter account, going on to become the most-liked tweet in history.

Chadwick Boseman‘s death was sudden and unexpected, as he kept the 2016 diagnosis out of public knowledge. Since learning about his illness, fans are amazed by how much Boseman was able to accomplish while battling his colon cancer. Boseman worked on seven feature-length films during his four-year fight, many of which are considered among his top career performances. Additionally, Boseman‘s roles were extremely physically-demanding. Any Marvel movie requires its actors to follow intense training regimens, and Boseman took that to a whole new level with the physicality he showed in Black Panther. He kept this up for two more movies after his titular performance as T’Challa, even amongst surgeries and treatments. In addition, Boseman used his platform as a celebrity to advocate for causes he was passionate about, such as social justice and fighting cancer.

Boseman’s passing weighs heavy on the hearts of many. Through his performances Boseman played roles that empowered minorities worldwide. His performance as T’Challa in the Marvel blockbusters became a global icon and symbol of Black power. His acting and activism impacted the lives of millions, with tributes and grief pouring in worldwide once news of Boseman’s death went public. Many tributes to Boseman came from those who worked alongside him within the Marvel Cinematic Universe:

“Mr. Boseman leveled the playing field while fighting for his life...that’s heroism. I’ll remember the good times, the laughter, and the way he changed the game” - Robert Downey Jr.

Multiple figures from the Marvel family shared their words and thoughts on Boseman’s influence.

“I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking. Chadwick was special. A true original. He was a deeply committed and constantly curious artist. He had so much amazing work still left to create. I’m endlessly grateful for our friendship. Rest in power, King.” - Chris Evans

“Chadwick was not only a deeply soulful and powerful actor, but he was such a kind, thoughtful, funny and gentle person. He brightened every ones day every time he walked into our hair and makeup trailer or on set with his beautiful smile. My heart goes out to his wife and entire family for such an unimaginable loss. Our collective Marvel family is absolutely heartbroken.” - Scarlett Johansson

Anthony and Joe Russo, who directed Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, also shared a tribute for Boseman. The Russo Brothers reunited with Boseman outside of the MCU for the 2019 action movie 21 Bridges:

“Chadwick was such an elegant man with great integrity and tremendous talent. He inspired an entire generation to stand up and be king. Honor him by emulating him-show kindness and love to others. Share your talents in ways that impact. Always strive to be a light in the darkness." - The Russo Brothers

Ryan Coogler, who made history with Boseman as Marvel’s first Black director in Black Panther, offered a lengthy and emotional tribute to Boseman’s career. Chadwick Boseman was a cultural revolutionary within Marvel and the entertainment world as a whole. It’s astonishing that he lived for four years in the forefront of the public eye without ever speaking of his illness or the treatments he was receiving. Boseman‘s undaunted manner in which he faced mortality mirrored the roles he thrived in playing: heroic Black men who were battling seemingly-impossible odds. His story is all the more heartbreaking since he died so young. There’s not much I can really say about this post: Boseman was a hero, and it’s heartbreaking that he is no longer here. Fro

“Fearlessness means taking the first step, even if you don’t know where it will take you. It means being driven by a higher purpose, rather than by applause. It means knowing that you reveal your character when you stand apart, more than when you stand with the crowd.“ - Chadwick Boseman.

Wakanda Forever. Rest in Power, Chadwick Boseman.